A Simple Guide to Understanding Port Fees for Perishable Cargo

Cargo ship at a port terminal – alt: “Container ship at port where perishable cargo fees apply”

Reefer container plugged in at terminal – alt: “Refrigerated container using port power at terminal”

Drayage truck leaving port with container – alt: “Truck hauling reefer container from port”

Terminal fee invoice – alt: “Example port fee invoice for perishable imports”

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Introduction

If you're new to importing perishable goods, port fees can be confusing—and sometimes expensive. Charges like demurrage, detention, reefer plug-in fees, and terminal handling fees often show up without much explanation.

This simple, beginner-friendly guide breaks down the most common port fees you’ll encounter when moving refrigerated (reefer) containers through U.S. ports, so you can plan ahead and avoid unnecessary costs.

Terminal Handling Charges (THC)

What it is: A fee charged by the terminal for handling your container when it arrives.

Why it’s important for perishables: Reefer containers require more care, monitoring, and equipment than dry containers—but THC applies to all cargo.

When you pay it: Usually billed by the steamship line as part of your ocean freight charges.

Reefer Plug-In Fees

What it is: A fee for keeping your refrigerated container powered while it sits at the port.

Reefer containers must stay plugged in to maintain temperature. Every day they remain at the terminal adds cost.

Why it matters: Delays (like USDA, FDA, or customs holds) can increase your plug-in bill.

1. Demurrage Fees (When Your Container Sits Too Long at the Port)

What it is: A fee charged when your container stays inside the terminal after your free days expire.

For perishables: Demurrage adds up quickly because reefer containers are expensive for terminals to store and maintain.

How to avoid it:

Book drayage early

Move cargo to cold storage ASAP

Check daily for holds

Know your LFD (Last Free Day)

Detention Fees (When You Keep the Container Too Long)

What it is: A fee charged by the steamship line when the container is out of the port but not returned within the allowed free time.

Example: You deliver to cold storage, but unloading takes too long—now the trucker can’t return the empty on time.

Tips to avoid detention:

Ask your warehouse about unloading speed

Book a drayage provider that can return empties quickly

Avoid drop trailers unless necessary

Chassis Usage Fees

What it is: The cost for using the chassis (the trailer frame) that carries the container. Some ports include it in the carrier’s charges; others bill separately.

Why reefer importers need to care: Reefer containers must be carried on refrigeration-compatible chassis, which may cost more or be in limited supply.

Pier Pass or Terminal Gate Fees

Certain West Coast ports (like Los Angeles/Long Beach) charge Pier Pass to reduce congestion during peak hours.

Why it affects refrigerated cargo: Reefer containers often need same-day movement, so timing around Pier Pass hours may be limited.

Appointment or Booking System Fees

Some ports charge for using their digital appointment systems. These fees are usually small, but for importers moving a lot of reefer containers, they add up.

Reefer Monitoring Fees

What it is: Terminals check reefer temperatures on a schedule and log the readings. This monitoring often has a daily cost.

Why it matters: The longer your reefer stays at the port, the higher the monitoring bill.

Exam Fees (If Your Cargo Is Pulled for Inspection)

If your shipment is selected for USDA, FDA, or customs exam, additional fees may apply for:

Moving the container to an exam area

Labor to open the container

Inspection personnel

Re-stacking or reloading (if needed)

Good to know: Even if the exam is random, you still pay the fees.

Port Congestion Surcharges (Occasional)

During peak seasons or labor shortages, some carriers add congestion surcharges.

For perishables: These charges can appear suddenly, so always read carrier notices carefully.

Conclusion

Port fees are a normal part of importing perishable cargo, but they don’t have to be a surprise. By understanding common charges—like demurrage, detention, reefer plug-in fees, chassis usage, and exam costs—you can plan ahead, avoid unnecessary delays, and keep your cold chain moving smoothly.